So you’re about to sign your lease or you recently just moved into a new place. As stressful as searching for accommodation or a roommate may be, various issues can come up once you’ve signed the lease and are trying to settle in. We’re here to walk you through some of the most common tenancy issues, and the best ways to deal with them.

Something is Broken or Damaged

In this case, contact your landlord and ask for a repair. If they do not take care of the problem, then send a follow up communication in writing with dates, time-frames, and if possible, pictures. If they still don’t respond, then apply for a dispute resolution, and if necessary, use your written communications as proof that you did your part as a tenant.

You Don't Have Smoke Alarms or They Aren't Working

First of all, before moving in, we hope you did an inspection. Ask your landlord to install them or repair them. If your landlord does not respond, you can always reach out to your local fire department. They can demand the landlord to install the appropriate fire alarms.

You Lost Your Key

Always keep a spare key with someone you trust and in a place you can periodically access in case of emergencies, such as where you work, at your bank or even in a lock box at your home. If you don’t have a spare, contact your landlord, they should have a spare, but they may charge you for the replacement depending on the terms of your tenancy agreement. Landlords, once you change tenants, you may want to change the locks for security purposes.

You Receive an Eviction Notice

All eviction notices must be in writing, and they must be provided a certain number of days before the eviction. In Alberta, it’s 14 days notice, but it varies from province to province. If you do receive an eviction notice, review the notice and check online for appeal times. If you feel the eviction is unfair, unjustified or illegal be sure to appeal it. If you are in Alberta, please contact Service Alberta.

In next weeks blog, we will talk about more problems and how to solve them. In the meantime, if you have any other ideas, please comment below, contact us or comment on our social media.